B1 Preliminary - Gapped Text Exercise 13

I Went One Week Without My Smartphone!

The idea to give up my smartphone for a week came to me after realising just how much time I was spending scrolling through social media feeds. I knew it was a bit too much, but when I found out I was on my phone for seven hours a day, that was it! I was curious to see how I would cope without it. _____1_____

On day one, I won't lie, it was tough. I found myself instinctively reaching for my phone, only to remember that I had decided not to use it. _____2_____ But, as the day progressed, I found myself adjusting to this new reality.

With the absence of my phone, I had so much free time on my hands. I filled it with reading books, going for walks, and spending time with family. _____3_____ These activities were so much more fulfilling than endless scrolling.

One of the most noticeable differences was my sleep. Without the glow of my screen keeping me awake, I found myself going to bed earlier and waking up more rested. _____4_____ It was an unexpected, but welcome change.

By the end of the week, I realised I wasn't missing much. Yes, I had missed a few messages and updates, but nothing that couldn't wait. _____5_____ It had been a rewarding experiment.

Overall, going without a smartphone for a week was a challenging but educational experience. It made me realise how much time I was wasting on it, and I've since made a conscious effort to reduce my screen time.

Sentences

A. The feeling I had was one of panic.

B. I was sceptical but excited to embark on this digital detox.

C. It was something I hadn't experienced in a long time.

D. I even found time to take up painting, a hobby I'd been interested in for a while.

E. I was more present and engaged in conversations, without the distraction of my phone.

F. Some of my friends were not happy that I was so hard to reach.

G. Instead, I realised how much I had gained.

H. The constant notifications and pings weren't there to interrupt my sleep.